The Northfield Historical Society presents “Hops, Grapes & History,” a benefit event on Saturday, March 8 at the Grand Event Center in Northfield.

The evening begins with a beer and wine tasting from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring a hand-selected variety of Minnesota craft beers and wines; hors d’oeuvres; and a silent auction with a chance to bid on numerous goods and services from local businesses. Then from 9 to 11:30 p.m., the event culminates with a not-to-be-missed performance by The Belfast Cowboys, one of Minnesota’s most acclaimed and popular bands.

A nine-piece band fronted by the legendary Terry Walsh and featuring a full horn section (including veteran sax man Vic Volare), The Belfast Cowboys pay tribute to the iconic music of Van Morrison. The Belfast Cowboys have rocked and rolled their way around the globe, including sold-out shows in Ireland, BB King’s Blues Bar in New York City, and the world-renowned First Avenue Mainroom.

Born on St. Patrick’s Day in 2002, "The Belfast Cowboys, complete with a rollicking horn section, conjures up the spirit and the songs of Ireland’s greatest export,” according to the Chicago Tribune. Along with their own catchy original tunes, The Belfast Cowboys also wow their audiences with spot-on favorites by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Band, and Elvis Costello.

“I love live music, and The Belfast Cowboys are truly one of my favorite live bands…ever!,” proclaims Jessica Paxton of KYMN Radio. “Terry Walsh and his crew are master performers. They know their stuff and they put their heart and soul into their live shows. I guarantee a good time for music lovers of all ages. And be sure to wear your dancing shoes!”

A testament to their steadfast popularity, The Belfast Cowboys play regular gigs in Minneapolis at legendary venues like Nye’s Polonaise Room, Lee’s Liquor Lounge, and Whiskey Junction. “This is a really big deal to have The Belfast Cowboys come down to perform in Northfield, and it couldn’t have happened without this partnership with the Historical Society,” says Paxton.

More at www.belfastcowboys.com

Proceeds from “Hops, Grapes & History” will support the Northfield Historical Society. Admission to all scheduled activities (including the beer/wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, and The Belfast Cowboys) is $40 per person or $70 per couple.

For those who choose to attend the performance by The Belfast Cowboys only, doors will open at 8:30 p.m. and the music will begin at 9 p.m. Admission to the music-only portion of the evening is $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Advance tickets are available now in person at the Northfield Historical Society (408 Division Street) and online at KYMN Radio (www.kymnradio.net); The Grand Event Center, (www.thegrandnorthfield.com) and the Northfield Historical Society (www.northfieldhistory.org).